Caithness And North Sutherland Regeneration Partnership - Update

5th May 2019

Week Commencing 29 April 2019.

Energy & Business Services:

As we see positive progress with the Beatrice Offshore Windfarm development, and the development of both Moray East and West projects, a new initiative to support supply chain companies to learn more about opportunities will be held in Thurso on 13th May. The DeepWind Offshore Supply Chain Cluster is one of 8 in the UK (one of two in Scotland) that are being created under the UK Offshore Wind Sector Deal and the DeepWind cluster is the North of Scotland supply chain cluster with the developers that are involved in the projects in the Moray Firth and on the Aberdeenshire coast. It will look at the deep wind opportunity covering both fixed bottom and floating wind and is also looking out to the next offshore wind leasing round, ScotWind, which could see at least one project off the Caithness coast. Companies wishing to attend can register at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cluster-supply-chain-roadshow-tickets-61286468477

Enabling activities:

I met senior colleagues from Scottish Government's Culture, Tourism and Major Events Directorate this week as they visited various sites in the Highland Council area. In my role as chair of the North Coast 500 Working Group we discussed current business growth around the route, as well as some of the pressures being felt in particular areas. I invited David Whiteford, Chair of the North Highland Initiative, to attend our meeting to give a flavour of the work that NHI has been doing to support communities to address challenges and realise opportunities.

Also this week the Queen Elizabeth Castle of Mey Trust announced the opening of its new 10 bedroom Granary Lodge accommodation, which was officially launched by HRH Prince Charles, Duke of Rothesay, and will open for business tomorrow (Monday 6th May 2019). The multi-million pound development will also act as a year round wedding and conference venue, offering further economic benefits to the north economy. https://www.johnogroat-journal.co.uk/news/prince-charles-opens-luxury-granary-lodge-development-177467/

Communications:

As part of an ongoing process of helping communicate progress with the delivery of aspects of our economic transition programme CNSRP's partners work together to generate news stories for local, regional and national media. I also speak on a regular basis to individuals and organisations across the area to update on progress. This week:

It was great to visit North Lands Creative Glass in Lybster this week, and to discuss its current activities and future plans with Karen Phillips and her team. Steadily approaching its 25th anniversary, the organisation continues to be a UK Centre of Excellence in its field, and plays a significant role in promoting the north of Scotland on an international stage. But it also plays an important role on a local level too, with its community ambassadors (funded through the Aspiring Communities programme) and its fantastic Community Design House space meaning it offers huge opportunity to the Lybster locality. More at https://northlandscreative.co.uk/who-we-are/



Eann Sinclair - Area Manager, Caithness & Sutherland

 

Related Businesses

 

Related Articles

Today : Local Authority

Caithness at the Sharp End: Broadband, Buses and Public Services Under Pressure

From the loss of a direct bus link to Inverness to uncertainty over rural broadband, a difficult council budget and the future of community organisations, the past week has provided plenty for Caithness residents to think about.  But there have also been celebrations, local achievements and signs of community spirit.  

Today : Advisory / Counseling Services

The North Sea's Changing Future: What Does It Mean for Jobs and Investment in Caithness?

The future of the North Sea energy industry is once again attracting considerable attention.  With the UK Government facing difficult decisions about oil and gas production, energy security, investment and the transition towards renewable energy.  

23/10/2026 : Marine Services

HIE funding supports new strategy role at Wick Harbour

Wick Harbour Authority (WHA) is to appoint a new strategy manager after securing up to £52,500 from Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) to help fund the post.   The post holder will help WHA deliver its emerging harbour masterplan and outline business case, strengthen capacity and develop new business opportunities.  

20/10/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

 
HIE welcomes £350m cable factory opening

The official opening of the UK’s first HVDC subsea cable factory, located at the Port of Nigg in Easter Ross, has been welcomed by Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE).   The facility represents an investment of £350m.  

17/10/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

When Community Ownership Isn't Enough: The Uncertain Future of GlenWyvis Distillery

The Highland distillery was built with the support of thousands of people who wanted to create something lasting for their community.  Its entry into administration exposes the financial risks facing ambitious local ventures, even when the original idea has widespread public support.  

8/10/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

Innovation and AI: New opportunities for businesses across the Highlands and Islands

Innovation has always been a defining characteristic of businesses and social enterprises in the Highlands and Islands.   Whether developing new products, finding ways to overcome the challenges of distance and geography, improving services, or identifying new markets, organisations across the region have a long track record of adapting and evolving.  

30/9/2026 : Local Authority

Scottish Cities Alliance Investment Conference to showcase Highland opportunities

Inverness will welcome government representatives, investors, business leaders and economic development partners later this week as it hosts the Scottish Cities Alliance Autumn Investor Event.  A two-day programme designed to showcase investment opportunities across Inverness, the Highlands and Scotland's city regions.  

29/9/2026 : Local Authority

Are We Trying to Save Britain’s Towns Without Planning Their Future?

Walk through almost any British town centre and you can see the evidence of change.   There are empty shops where there were once businesses.  

26/9/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

September is Scottish Start-Up Month – could your business idea become a reality?

September has become a month when Scotland's aspiring entrepreneurs are being encouraged to take a closer look at an idea that may have been sitting in the back of their minds for some time.   Scottish Start-Up Month, led by Business Gateway, has returned for 2026 with a simple message: if you have an idea for a business, this could be the month to take the first step.  

22/9/2026 : Advisory / Counseling Services

Scotland and Ireland Strengthen Economic Links Between Gaelic Communities

Scotland and Ireland Strengthen Economic Links Between Gaelic Communities Scotland and Ireland are developing closer links between their Gaelic-speaking communities, with housing, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, tourism and the marine economy among the areas being explored for future cooperation.   The initiative was highlighted during a visit to Skye by Ireland's President Catherine Connolly, who met representatives of Highland organisations including Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) and Highland Council.